Residents of New Orleans are all too familiar with the molds and mildews that thrive in the warm, moist climate of the deep south. In interviews with residents of the Big Easy, homeowners shared their favorite mold eradicating formulas.
Household Bleach to Remove Mold
By far the most common anti-mold mixture was one cup of household bleach in a gallon of hot water. Sponge the solution on to the moldy surface and let it set for a few minutes. The bleach not only kills mold and mildew, discolors it as well. The EPA web page on mold and mildew says that while bleach kills the mold, it doesn’t remove it from the surface. The remaining dead mold may still be a problem for people with asthma and allergies, so after bleaching, the EPA recommends scrubbing the surface with soap and water to completely remove the mold.
Use Safety Precautions When Using Bleach
Bleach is a hazardous substance and must be used with adequate ventilation. Wear rubber gloves and eye protection when working with bleach. Since bleach can also damage the surface being cleaned, treat a small test area first and check the results.
Peroxide and Vinegar to Remove Mold
Several people report success with a combination of hydrogen peroxide and vinegar. Put hydrogen peroxide in one spray bottle, and distilled white vinegar in another. For safety’s sake, label the spray bottles, and use in a well ventilated area. Spray the vinegar onto the moldy area, followed by the peroxide. Allow the chemicals to sit on the mold for a few minutes, and then scrub the surface with soap and water.
The Ultimate Homemade Solution for Mold
This anti-mold solution has a number of devotees who claim it is the most effective product of all for killing mold. Though the quantities of the ingredients vary slightly from recipe to recipe, most agree this combination produces good results:
- 1 gallon of water
- 1 cup of rubbing alcohol
- 1 cup of white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of baking soda
- 1 cup hydrogen peroxide
Mix all the ingredients in a bucket and either sponge the solution onto the mold, or use a spray bottle. Again, use only in a well ventilated area, wear rubber gloves and eye protection. Scrub the affected area with soap and water after the mold has been killed.
Prevention is the Best Solution
Mold needs moisture and warmth to grow. The EPA recommends fixing any leaks or drips, and adding ventilation to increase airflow in moist areas. Dehumidifiers can also help reduce moisture in humid climates. But, if prevention doesn't work, get out the household chemicals, put on the rubber gloves and eradicate that mold.
Sheila Gaquin - As a public school teacher Sheila has worked in some remote and far flung places. She taught for nine years in a remote Eskimo village ...
